5 upvotes, 0 direct replies (showing 0)
I've been diagnosed with autism, ADHD, many mental health issues, and a lot of physical chronic genetic health issues. I am unable to function and need a lot of aid. My conditions are also all mostly invisible, and yes, I am 20 and AFAB, but I look like a young teen. Most of my issues have a spectrum of severity, and I don't meet most stereotypes.
I feel like people don't take me seriously. I already had to fight to have someone listen to me and actually check me out, and I wrongly assumed my issues with that would be over when I finally got formal diagnoses. I've had doctors dismiss me even after diagnosis because they won't believe it. I'm not on mainstream social media. I didn't even know any of this was popular or trendy until recently! I dread and am extremely anxious about trying to explain myself to anyone, especially new doctors.
Yes, it's invisible, but I've been in treatment for most of my life. It really is that bad. My autism and ADHD do have upsides, but I don't understand why people want and flaunt any of this. I do my best to spread awareness and be true to myself, and I'm doing the best I can to manage. I'm miserable and wish it would all stop so I can go live my life.
I didn't choose any of this. I've done everything in my power to help myself. But it's still there. There's no fixing my DNA or whatever happened to my brain. What 20 year old wants help getting dressed, getting food, and showering? I don't choose to not sleep or have my body be physically unable to hold itself together. I didn't choose pain or fatigue or allergic reactions and passing out and migraines, GI issues issues, severe anxiety, depression, mood disorders, sensory issues.. and on and on and on. I'm not being overdramatic. I'm not crazy. It really is that bad.
I believe suspecting you have a condition isn't bad. Getting in to see professionals is difficult and lengthy. Speculating is the first step to treatment. But as long as they are seeking professional opinions and looking for help, I don't see an issue. Before I was diagnosed I'd say things like "I probably have autism," but I wouldn't outright claim I had it.
I'd also like to add that the influx of diagnoses is coming from the fact that these conditions are coming to light and more people are realizing they have them. I don't think fakers are common, and most of the mis-self-diagnoses are from teens. I also think that some who are formally diagnosed assume that their experience is how everyone else experiences the condition, which is rarely the case.
I'm glad these issues are getting more awareness, but the mis-self-diagnoses feel like they are currently doing more harm than good.
TL;DR: I agree. And I'm scared because I genuinely have and am formally diagnosed with many "trendy" conditions that have left me disabled, and I need a lot of aid and accomodations to stay alive.
There's nothing here!